NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
TRING, MASTERPLAN
A forward-looking masterplan for Tring’s historic Natural History Museum, improving visitor experience, collection care, and long-term sustainability.
The Brief
Originally built in 1881 to house Walter Rothschild’s zoological collection, the museum has evolved without a cohesive visitor experience. Richard was commissioned to create a long-term masterplan that would:
- Improve access and visitor flow.
- Upgrade building performance with sustainable, fabric-first measures.
- Create better connections between the museum and surrounding landscape.
- Expand learning, research, and event spaces for public and academic use.
The Challenge
Balancing the preservation of a historic building and collection with the needs of a modern museum. Key challenges included inefficient circulation, lack of facilities for education and events, and limited infrastructure to support digitisation and sustainability goals.
Balancing the preservation of a historic building and collection with the needs of a modern museum. Key challenges included inefficient circulation, lack of facilities for education and events, and limited infrastructure to support digitisation and sustainability goals.
The Outcome (proposed)
- Reimagined arrival – A new entrance sets the tone for a more accessible and welcoming experience.
- Improved public spaces – A new café, restaurant, and flexible event spaces broaden the museum’s role as a community hub.
- Learning and research facilities – Dedicated teaching spaces and postgraduate research areas support education and international scholarship.
- Modern collection care – Digitisation labs and improved storage areas ensure long-term preservation.
- Landscape integration – Better physical and visual connections between the museum and its surroundings.
Why This Project Stands Out
This masterplan supports the museum’s future as both a cultural destination and research institution. It balances heritage, sustainability, and function - creating a stronger, more engaging public message for future generations.